Cristiano Ronaldo may come up against his international teammate Joao Palhinha when Manchester United face Fulham tomorrow.
Ronaldo missed the 4-2 EFL Cup win over Aston Villa in midweek with illness, having captained the side against the same opponents on Sunday.
Erik ten Hag said he could well return in United’s last game before the World Cup as United go to Craven Cottage looking to sign off with a win.
In an interview with the Times, Fulham midfielder Palhinha praised Ronaldo before potentially facing him tomorrow afternoon.
Palhinha on Ronaldo
“I have good memories, when I was young, of seeing Ronaldo on TV playing here for the first time,” Palhinha said.
“The trophies [he won] and history he made here in England, in Spain, Italy, the world of football — it’s amazing.
“To play against him this weekend, and share a dressing room with him, is a dream come true.
“This World Cup is not just about Cristiano; everyone wants to win, as a gift for our country. We have the talent. But we will fight for all of Portugal, not just one person.”
Ronaldo has of course been on a collision course with United since the summer when he asked to leave, and Erik ten Hag has handled that situation expertly.
That means it is doubtful he will play at Craven Cottage and United looked better without him in the team against Villa anyway.
Ronaldo will soon be focused on trying to win the World Cup for the first time in his career, just the same as his long-time rival Lionel Messi.
Then, when the tournament is over, there will not be long left until the January transfer window, when it would be best for all parties if Ronaldo takes a financial hit and leaves.
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